Best Kids' Thrill (2001)

The Diamond Dash

Ballpark financing woes aside, the Florida Marlins can be just as dreary on the field: waiting for Alex Gonzalez to chase yet another breaking ball in the dirt or watching Matt Clement walk the bases loaded -- again. And games can be especially unpleasant during those hot summer Sundays, when the hammering sun makes just sitting in the stands akin to a full workout. But parents, take heart. The real attraction for your little Little Leaguer comes after Sunday afternoon games, when the team opens up the base paths so tykes 12 years old or younger can trot from first to home -- usually with a smiling Billy the Marlin slapping 'em five. Queue up before the ninth inning in the corridor behind first base. Then await your kid's turn. But keep an eye peeled: Ours nearly disappeared into left field before a friendly usher steered him home.